All businesses in Sandy Springs rock. That’s why I’m an active volunteer for the Sandy Springs/Perimeter Chamber of Commerce.

When my 15-year-old daughter, Amanda, and I found ourselves trapped in the recent winter storm, I realized how much our city is especially blessed by small, local trade. On Jan. 28, we left my daughter’s homeschool co-op in Tucker at 12:50 p.m. to travel to our Sandy Springs home. At nine o’clock that evening, we only reached Perimeter Center West.

My faith in getting home diminished, as fears soared. That’s when my phone rang. My daughter’s teacher, Kara Freeman, from Sky Gym, called to let me know about the cancellation of an upcoming class. More importantly, she wanted to confirm our safety and warmth. When she heard our situation, she immediately sprang into action.

She contacted a fellow Roswell Road business friend from YourDay Enterprises. Sideeq Shabazz immediately offered help. My daughter and I parked at the Sandy Springs transit station about 10 p.m., and Sideeq, a former Atlanta Falcons player and current personal trainer, ran about three miles to our location.

He delivered coats, scarves, hats, socks and gloves. Next, he escorted us to his family’s home where they offered food and shelter. While stress, exhaustion and frustration might seem appropriate following our driving experience, my daughter and I only feel blessed.

How lucky we are to live in a city where small businesses flourish and people sincerely care!

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